Bali is a fave with A-listers, and we have such travel envy
Why A-listers head to this magical destination
Bali has always been a magnet for spiritual types, surfer dudes and gap-year students in search of unspoilt beaches and self-discovery. But it’s also becoming a go-to destination for celebs including the Beckhams and the Obamas, who are keen to soak up the culture, the history… and the stunning five-star hotels. If you’re planning a trip to this Indonesian paradise, here are some highlights you should add to your holiday checklist.
1 HANG WITH THE MONKEYS
The sacred Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, aka the Monkey Forest, is an area of the island where around 340 Balinese long-tailed monkeys roam free. You can watch them up close, or even let them climb on your shoulder and spend a few moments pretending you’re Ross from
Friends. Just don’t expect to keep any snacks to yourself, though, as these cheeky animals are greedier than Joey Tribbiani with a raging case of the munchies.
2 RELAX AT THE SPA
The spiritual side of the island has made it a destination for those seeking to unwind for centuries, and their spa culture is something else. For an affordable experience with views to give your eyes a top treat, La Joya (La-joya-bali.com) is perched by the sea at Balangan Beach, and you can enjoy a Balinese massage for as little as $15 under a thatched roof, overlooking the stunning Jimbaran coast. Serious relaxation goals.
3 PIMP YOUR PAD
The wicker, weaving and wood carvings of Bali-inspired interiors is really hot right now, so take home some of those “Oh-i-picked-it-upin-this-indonesian-market” bargains with a visit to Satunama (on Twitter @satunamahome) in Seminyak. There, you’ll find gems that cost a fraction of the price they are on the high street over here (oh, and you can grab a slice of cake to celebrate your shopping victory, too).
4 LAP UP THE LUXURY RESORTS
If you haven’t Instagrammed yourself in an infinity pool while gazing out at some lush rainforest, have you even been to Bali at all? The hotels in Bali are so extra that even over-pampered A-listers are regularly wowed by them. The Bisma Eight (Bisma-eight.com) in Ubud – an area of the island famous for its crafts – is off the beaten track, and has great rooms with amazing bathrooms and lounge areas, which make it difficult to leave. Luckily, the pool and sun loungers overlooking the paddy fields are more than enough to entice you away. The food all has a healthy vibe (the poolside tuna kebabs are immense), and afternoon tea in your room is included. Plus, there’s daily yoga sessions (practically compulsory in this wellness wonderland) if you want to be a total basic Bali bitch. Rooms cost from £248 a night.
5 PARTY ON THE BEACH
The annual Rapture VIP pool party at Hotel Mulia in September is one of the best places to celeb spot, as it attracts famous names such as Fergie, Mark Ronson and Liam Payne. Each year offers a line-up of cult DJS, top-tier entertainment, extravagant décor, fabulous dancers, and elevated food and cocktails for a night to truly remember. For tickets to next year’s event, head to Muliarapture.com.
6 WONDER AT THE ELEPHANTS
The beautiful Sumatran rescue elephants at the Elephant Park & Lodge (Masonelephant lodge.com) in Taro are treated really well, and celebs such as Julia Roberts, David Beckham and Leona Lewis have grabbed a selfie with them. Run by Aussie Nigel Mason, who has been campaigning for animal rights and conservation in Bali for years, it’s a great place to really get to know these incredible
creatures. You can help wash them or go for a ride, and there’s a super-luxe eco lodge if you want to stay, too.
7 SOAK UP THE SURF IN SEMINYAK
The surf all over Bali is worldfamous, but the chilled-out town of Seminyak is the perfect place to try it out if you’re a newbie. There’s a huge choice of surf schools set up along the beach, and a hipster feel to the bars and beach clubs (we were big fans of Potato Head). For a chic base, try the modern, minimalistic Alila Hotel (Alilahotels.com/seminyak), which has been cleverly sectioned off to make it feel boutique-y, even though it’s pretty big. The open-air reception area makes you feel the beach vibe as soon as you step inside, and there are a great choice of pool areas if you want to chill away from the ocean. Studio rooms cost from £199 a night.
8 EAT ALL THE FOOD
Balinese food uses the wealth of fresh ingredients from the sea and land, combining it with spices to produce some truly plate-licking dishes. From a tour around the paddy fields, to a traditional Balinese cooking class – which Chrissy Teigen and John Legend tried during their recent trip – to just devouring a feast at one of the great restaurants on offer, it’s worth diving into this distinctive cuisine. Our top tip is Sardine Restaurant (Sardinebali.com) in Kerobokan – it’s hidden behind a discreet door, behind which is a sunflower field where the food is off the hook.